Sunderland manager Mick McCarthy is keeping tabs on Senegalese international Ferdinand Coly as he begins to plan for next season's First Division promotion push.

Sunderland manager Mick McCarthy is keeping tabs on Senegalese international Ferdinand Coly as he begins to plan for next season's First Division promotion push.

The World Cup defender is currently on loan at Birmingham City from French outfit Lens but is not believed to have a future with either club.

Coly caught McCarthy's eye during a reserve-team clash with the Blues last month and sources in the West Midlands claim talks have already been held with St Andrews boss Steve Bruce.

But, with finances tight at the Stadium of Light following relegation, it remains to be seen whether the full-back will be available. Birmingham coach Mark Bowen confirmed: "My understanding is that Sunderland have shown an interest in him."

Richie Ryan has been named in a Republic of Ireland Under-19 squad for a Uefa qualifying tournament in Dublin this month, and John Oster has been selected in a provisional Wales `A' squad for a friendly against the USA in San Jose on May 26.